PENNA, WILLIAM JOHN. Bill Penna passed away peacefully on February 12, 2014 after a valiant struggle with cancer.
Born in New Rochelle on July 9, 1959, Bill moved with his family to Pelham in 1970 from the Eastchester Road/Morris Park Avenue section of the Bronx. He graduated from Pelham High School in 1977.
Bill attended Pace University in Manhattan earning a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics and went on to obtain a Masters of Fine Arts degree from New York University.
An eternal optimist, Bill was known for his good looks, bright smile, cheerful personality and keen mind. He was an avid reader who was never found without a book or newspaper in hand.
Theater, food and politics were Bill's lifelong passions to which he devoted his time and efforts distinguishing himself for his inexhaustible energy and incredible talent.
Blessed with a beautiful singing voice and a mastery of set design, Bill was involved in countless theatrical productions including performances at Circle in the Square and other off Broadway companies in addition to numerous venues throughout Westchester.
Bill's has served the Westchester County Republican Party as a District Leader for more than twenty-five years. His political experiences include the campaigns of many former and present state and local elected officials in both Westchester and Manhattan. He was also a very active member of the Log Cabin Republicans for over twenty years.
His love of cooking was reflected in not only the sumptuous meals he prepared in his family's Pelham and, later, New Rochelle homes, but also in the decades of outstanding work in catering and other professional roles in the New York City hospitality industry. Bill was renowned for throwing spectacular parities and elaborate dinners.
Bill spent his final months in Manhattan with his loving partner, David Mandel.
In addition to David, Bill is survived by his mother, Lucy M. Penna of New Rochelle; by his sister, Gina Marie Angiulo of New Rochelle and her husband, Tony; by his brother Bob and his wife, Elise, now living in Wilmington, NC; by his nephews William Carney of Schenectady, Capt. Matthew Carney, stationed at Ft. Drum, and Gianni Angiulo of New Rochelle; and by his niece, Sara Penna, attending Alfred University. He is predeceased by his father Robert M. Penna and brother Christian.
Visiting hours at George T Davis Funeral Home,14 LeCount Place, New Rochelle, will be on Saturday, February 15 and Sunday, February 16, from 2-4 PM and 7-9 PM. Funeral Mass will be held at
St. Catherine of Siena Church, 411 East 68th Street, New York, NY; (212-988-8300) on Monday, February 17, 2014 at 1:00 o'clock PM.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
March 4, 2014
Mark Robinson, David Weincek
As classmates of Bill's at NYU, we will always remember his infectious laugh, his love of acting and his positive outlook. He will always be remembered by his classmates.
February 19, 2014
Gina Miller
My sincerest sympathy to Lucy and the Penna Family for your devastating loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
February 18, 2014
William Acheson
I knew Billy since I was a kid. I remember him always being enthusiastic about whatever he did and when you talked to him, he was a bright light.
Rest easy in our lasting love, Billy.
February 17, 2014
David Mandel
The man who taught me so much about life & learned about life from a different perspective. It was KISMET, Bill. You are free & will always be with me. I love you coach xo David (y.h.p)
February 17, 2014
Gregory T. Angelo
Always a fighter, eternally loyal. Rest peacefully, Bill. With sympathy,
February 17, 2014
Gerard Gershonowitz
It is sad that we lost a great friend and member. Bill will be missed for his skills and insight.
February 16, 2014
Rob Weild
A warm and caring soul, a sparkling personality, a bright mind...
February 16, 2014
Rob Weild
A warm and loving soul, a bright and shining mind, a great man of many talents...
You will be missed, though remembered, for a long, long time.
February 15, 2014
Talented, fun & one-of-a-kind. You were loved.
February 15, 2014
Nick Martielli
Deepest sympathy and condolences. He will be missed.
February 15, 2014
With many thoughts and deepest sympathy to your family, I pray that God gives you peace, comfort and strength. (Psalm 29:11)
February 14, 2014
Janice Boone
I am so sad. Bill is one of the good guys. Praying for Lucy & family. She is so strong. Peace & grace during this difficult time.
February 14, 2014
Loretta Cox
Finalmente con Dio caro Bill poi riposare en pace.
Tutto che ai passato non esista piu.
Poi essere con tutti il altri angeli e niente o nessuno po' darti pena.
Con baci sempre.
February 14, 2014
Loretta Cox
With loving memories for a man who's spirit will be in the hearts of all he touched. You are free my love. Run with the wind.
Showing 1 - 14 of 14 results
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read more